Your body isn’t going to like every chemical and ingredient it comes into contact with, including those found in cosmetics. If you apply an eyeshadow color and end up with itchy eyes, then you might be allergic to that specific product. If you use a lot of different makeup products, it might be difficult to pinpoint the culprit. Here are a few things to be on the lookout for if you suspect you might be allergic to makeup.
Do You Have an Unusual Rash?
The reaction that occurs from being in contact with an allergen is called allergic contact dermatitis, and it can look pretty similar to eczema. If you notice an itchy, dry, red or flaky rash in an area that you’ve applied makeup too, then you’re likely allergic to an ingredient within the product. Extreme allergic reactions to makeup can cause swelling or blistering, similar to what you’d experience with poison ivy.
A Longtime Product Can Turn on You
Like with any allergen out there, you can develop an allergy to a product you’ve been using for months or even years. The more you use a specific makeup product, the more your immune system has time to get used to it before deciding that it doesn’t like it. In general, the immune system can become hypersensitive to chemicals as time goes on. This means that one day, your holy-grail lipstick or eyeshadow that you’ve been using for several years can suddenly turn on you and cause a rash or blistering.
The Reaction Might Not be Immediate
When you start using a new product, you might not see a reaction form for a few hours, or possibly even a few days. However, once that first allergic reaction happens, the next one might happen within an hour or two rather than a few days due to previous exposure. Your immune system is faster in recognizing the chemical it doesn’t like and works faster to express that to the rest of your body.
Some of the most common reactions to cosmetics are due to present metals like nickel and cobalt, which are typically found in hair dyes, eyeshadows, and deodorants. The preservatives used to extend the product’s shelf life, most commonly parabens and methylisothiazolinone, are also popular in causing allergic reactions. However, while these ingredients and more can negatively impact those with sensitive skin, it’s usually not a life-threatening reaction.
What Happens When You Stop Using the Product?
The best way to determine if a makeup product is causing an allergic reaction is to stop using it.
Many believe that the reactions are due to the product expiring rather than the ingredients itself. To test this as well, purchase a new one and test whether or not you still have the same reaction.
At European Beauty, our experts are committed to helping our Toronto clients achieve brighter and healthier skin. Our many skincare services include DMK organic enzyme facials, radiofrequency face lifting, non-surgical facelifts, skin tightening treatments and more. To book an appointment with us, be sure to give us a call or visit our website.
